Passion plays around the world

March 25, 2016 3:56 PM

Willy Salvador, 59, hangs from a cross as part of his penitence during a reenactment of the crucifixion of Jesus Christ for Good Friday celebrations ahead of Easter in the village of San Juan, Pampanga, north of Manila on March 25, 2016.
Christian devotees were nailed to crosses in the Philippines on March 25 as Asia's Catholic heartland marked Easter with an extreme display of faith.
/ AFP / NOEL CELIS less

Willy Salvador, 59, hangs from a cross as part of his penitence during a reenactment of the crucifixion of Jesus Christ for Good Friday celebrations ahead of Easter in the village of San Juan, Pampanga, north ... more

Photo: NOEL CELIS, Getty Images

Willy Salvador, 59, hangs from a cross as part of his penitence...photo-9705658.127111 - |ucfirst

SAN FERNANDO, PAMPANGA - MARCH 25: Filipino penitents are nailed to the cross during a reenactment of Christ's crucifixion on March 25, 2016 in San Fernando town in Pampanga province, Philippines. The annual crucifixion rites draws huge crowds of people to normally sleepy towns in northern Philippines. less

SAN FERNANDO, PAMPANGA - MARCH 25: Filipino penitents are nailed to the cross during a reenactment of Christ's crucifixion on March 25, 2016 in San Fernando town in Pampanga province, Philippines. The annual ... more

A spectator takes a selfie with an actor playing the role of Jesus during the reenactment of the suffering and crucifixion of Jesus in a street play as part of Lenten observance during Holy Week in Manila on March 24, 2016, ahead of Easter.
Christian believers around the world mark the Holy Week of Easter in celebration of the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ. / AFP / TED ALJIBE less

A spectator takes a selfie with an actor playing the role of Jesus during the reenactment of the suffering and crucifixion of Jesus in a street play as part of Lenten observance during Holy Week in Manila on ... more

Photo: TED ALJIBE, Getty Images

A spectator takes a selfie with an actor playing the role of Jesus...photo-9705666.127111 - |ucfirst

SAN FERNANDO, PAMPANGA - MARCH 25: Filipino Christian devotees whip their backs bloody using wooden flails during Good Friday on March 25, 2016 in San Fernando town in Pampanga province, Philippines. The annual crucifixion and flagellation rites draws huge crowds of people to normally sleepy towns in northern Philippines. less

SAN FERNANDO, PAMPANGA - MARCH 25: Filipino Christian devotees whip their backs bloody using wooden flails during Good Friday on March 25, 2016 in San Fernando town in Pampanga province, Philippines. The ... more

SAN FERNANDO, PAMPANGA - MARCH 25: A Filipino Christian devotee whip his back until they turn bloody using wooden flails during Good Friday on March 25, 2016 in San Fernando town in Pampanga province, Philippines. The annual crucifixion and flagellation rites draws huge crowds of people to normally sleepy towns in northern Philippines. less

SAN FERNANDO, PAMPANGA - MARCH 25: A Filipino Christian devotee whip his back until they turn bloody using wooden flails during Good Friday on March 25, 2016 in San Fernando town in Pampanga province, ... more

Participants whip their bloodied backs with bamboo as part of their penitence during the re-enactment of the crucifixion of Jesus Christ for Good Friday celebrations ahead of Easter in the village of San Juan, Pampanga, north of Manila on March 25, 2016.
Christian devotees were nailed to crosses in the Philippines on March 25 as Asia's Catholic heartland marked Easter with an extreme display of faith.
/ AFP / NOEL CELIS less

Participants whip their bloodied backs with bamboo as part of their penitence during the re-enactment of the crucifixion of Jesus Christ for Good Friday celebrations ahead of Easter in the village of San Juan, ... more

Photo: NOEL CELIS, Getty Images

Participants whip their bloodied backs with bamboo as part of their...photo-9705663.127111 - |ucfirst

SAN FERNANDO, PAMPANGA - MARCH 25: Filipino Christian devotees whip their backs bloody using wooden flails during Good Friday on March 25, 2016 in San Fernando town in Pampanga province, Philippines. The annual crucifixion and flagellation rites draws huge crowds of people to normally sleepy towns in northern Philippines. less

SAN FERNANDO, PAMPANGA - MARCH 25: Filipino Christian devotees whip their backs bloody using wooden flails during Good Friday on March 25, 2016 in San Fernando town in Pampanga province, Philippines. The ... more

SAN FERNANDO, PAMPANGA - MARCH 25: Filipino Willy Salvador, 59 is led to the streets during a reenactment of Christ's suffering before being nailed to the cross on Good Friday on March 25, 2016 in San Fernando town in Pampanga province, Philippines. The annual crucifixion and flagellation rites draws huge crowds of people to normally sleepy towns in northern Philippines. less

SAN FERNANDO, PAMPANGA - MARCH 25: Filipino Willy Salvador, 59 is led to the streets during a reenactment of Christ's suffering before being nailed to the cross on Good Friday on March 25, 2016 in San Fernando ... more

SAN FERNANDO, PAMPANGA - MARCH 25: Filipino Christian devotees whip their backs bloody using wooden flails during Good Friday on March 25, 2016 in San Fernando town in Pampanga province, Philippines. The annual crucifixion and flagellation rites draws huge crowds of people to normally sleepy towns in northern Philippines. less

SAN FERNANDO, PAMPANGA - MARCH 25: Filipino Christian devotees whip their backs bloody using wooden flails during Good Friday on March 25, 2016 in San Fernando town in Pampanga province, Philippines. The annual ... more

PAMPANGA, PHILIPPINES - MARCH 25: A Filipino Christian devotee's hand is bloodied after flagellation rites on Good Friday on March 25, 2016 in San Fernando town in Pampanga province, Philippines. The annual crucifixion and flagellation rites draws huge crowds of people to normally sleepy towns in northern Philippines. less

PAMPANGA, PHILIPPINES - MARCH 25: A Filipino Christian devotee's hand is bloodied after flagellation rites on Good Friday on March 25, 2016 in San Fernando town in Pampanga province, Philippines. The annual ... more

Devotees (back R) hang from crosses after being nailed to them as part of their penitence as people take part in the reenactment of the crucifixion of Jesus Christ for Good Friday celebrations ahead of Easter at the village of Cutud near San Fernando, Pampanga province, north of Manila on March 25, 2016. Christian devotees were nailed to crosses in the Philippines on March 25 as Asia's Catholic heartland marked Easter with an extreme display of faith. / AFP / NOEL CELIS less

Devotees (back R) hang from crosses after being nailed to them as part of their penitence as people take part in the reenactment of the crucifixion of Jesus Christ for Good Friday celebrations ahead of Easter ... more

Photo: Dondi Tawatao, Getty Images

Devotees (back R) hang from crosses after being nailed to them as...photo-9705665.127111 - |ucfirst

PAMPANGA, PHILIPPINES - MARCH 25: Filipino Willy Salvador, 59 is led to the fields during a reenactment of Christ's suffering before being nailed to the cross on Good Friday on March 25, 2016 in San Fernando town in Pampanga province, Philippines. The annual crucifixion and flagellation rites draws huge crowds of people to normally sleepy towns in northern Philippines. less

PAMPANGA, PHILIPPINES - MARCH 25: Filipino Willy Salvador, 59 is led to the fields during a reenactment of Christ's suffering before being nailed to the cross on Good Friday on March 25, 2016 in San Fernando ... more

SAN FERNANDO, PAMPANGA - MARCH 25: Filipino Christian devotees whip their backs bloody using wooden flails during Good Friday on March 25, 2016 in San Fernando town in Pampanga province, Philippines. The annual crucifixion and flagellation rites draws huge crowds of people to normally sleepy towns in northern Philippines. less

SAN FERNANDO, PAMPANGA - MARCH 25: Filipino Christian devotees whip their backs bloody using wooden flails during Good Friday on March 25, 2016 in San Fernando town in Pampanga province, Philippines. The annual ... more

Willy Salvador, 59, is nailed to a cross as part of his penitence during a reenactment of the crucifixion of Jesus Christ for Good Friday celebrations ahead of Easter in the village of San Juan, Pampanga, north of Manila on March 25, 2016.
Christian devotees were nailed to crosses in the Philippines on March 25 as Asia's Catholic heartland marked Easter with an extreme display of faith.
/ AFP / NOEL CELIS less

Willy Salvador, 59, is nailed to a cross as part of his penitence during a reenactment of the crucifixion of Jesus Christ for Good Friday celebrations ahead of Easter in the village of San Juan, Pampanga, north ... more

Photo: NOEL CELIS, Getty Images

Willy Salvador, 59, is nailed to a cross as part of his penitence...photo-9705662.127111 - |ucfirst

SAN FERNANDO, PAMPANGA - MARCH 25: Participants hammer nails to the hand of Filipino Willy Salvador, 59 during a reenactment of Christ's suffering when he was nailed to the cross on Good Friday on March 25, 2016 in San Fernando town in Pampanga province, Philippines. The annual crucifixion and flagellation rites draws huge crowds of people to normally sleepy towns in northern Philippines. less

SAN FERNANDO, PAMPANGA - MARCH 25: Participants hammer nails to the hand of Filipino Willy Salvador, 59 during a reenactment of Christ's suffering when he was nailed to the cross on Good Friday on March 25, ... more

SAN FERNANDO, PAMPANGA - MARCH 25: Dante Enage is hoisted up after being nailed to the cross for the 30th time this year on March 25, 2016 in San Fernando town in Pampanga province, Philippines. The annual crucifixion rites draws huge crowds of people to normally sleepy towns in northern Philippines. less

SAN FERNANDO, PAMPANGA - MARCH 25: Dante Enage is hoisted up after being nailed to the cross for the 30th time this year on March 25, 2016 in San Fernando town in Pampanga province, Philippines. The annual ... more

SAN FERNANDO, PAMPANGA - MARCH 25: Filipino penitents are nailed to the cross during a reenactment of Christ's crucifixion on March 25, 2016 in San Fernando town in Pampanga province, Philippines. The annual crucifixion rites draws huge crowds of people to normally sleepy towns in northern Philippines. less

SAN FERNANDO, PAMPANGA - MARCH 25: Filipino penitents are nailed to the cross during a reenactment of Christ's crucifixion on March 25, 2016 in San Fernando town in Pampanga province, Philippines. The annual ... more

Devotees (back R) hang from crosses after being nailed to them as part of their penitence as people take part in the reenactment of the crucifixion of Jesus Christ for Good Friday celebrations ahead of Easter at the village of Cutud near San Fernando, Pampanga province, north of Manila on March 25, 2016.
Christian devotees were nailed to crosses in the Philippines on March 25 as Asia's Catholic heartland marked Easter with an extreme display of faith.
/ AFP / NOEL CELIS less

Devotees (back R) hang from crosses after being nailed to them as part of their penitence as people take part in the reenactment of the crucifixion of Jesus Christ for Good Friday celebrations ahead of Easter ... more

Photo: NOEL CELIS, Getty Images

Devotees (back R) hang from crosses after being nailed to them as...photo-9705656.127111 - |ucfirst

Men dressed as Romans (bottom C-in red) adjust the cross holding carpenter Ruben Enaje (L), 55, after he was nailed to it as part of his penitence during the reenactment of the crucifixion of Jesus Christ during Good Friday celebrations ahead of Easter at the village of Cutud near San Fernando, Pampanga province, north of Manila on March 25, 2016.
Christian devotees were nailed to crosses in the Philippines on March 25 as Asia's Catholic heartland marked Easter with an extreme display of faith.
/ AFP / NOEL CELIS less

Men dressed as Romans (bottom C-in red) adjust the cross holding carpenter Ruben Enaje (L), 55, after he was nailed to it as part of his penitence during the reenactment of the crucifixion of Jesus Christ ... more

Devotees hang from crosses, surrounded by men dressed as Romans (in red), after being nailed to them as part of their penitence during the reenactment of the crucifixion of Jesus Christ for Good Friday celebrations ahead of Easter at the village of Cutud near San Fernando, Pampanga province, north of Manila on March 25, 2016.
Christian devotees were nailed to crosses in the Philippines on March 25 as Asia's Catholic heartland marked Easter with an extreme display of faith.
/ AFP / NOEL CELIS less

Devotees hang from crosses, surrounded by men dressed as Romans (in red), after being nailed to them as part of their penitence during the reenactment of the crucifixion of Jesus Christ for Good Friday ... more

Photo: NOEL CELIS, Getty Images

Devotees hang from crosses, surrounded by men dressed as Romans (in...photo-9705664.127111 - |ucfirst

PAMPANGA, PHILIPPINES - MARCH 25: Filipino Christian devotees pray before a cross on Good Friday on March 25, 2016 in San Fernando town in Pampanga province, Philippines. The annual crucifixion and flagellation rites draws huge crowds of people to normally sleepy towns in northern Philippines. less

PAMPANGA, PHILIPPINES - MARCH 25: Filipino Christian devotees pray before a cross on Good Friday on March 25, 2016 in San Fernando town in Pampanga province, Philippines. The annual crucifixion and ... more

SAN FERNANDO, PAMPANGA - MARCH 25: Filipino Willy Salvador, 59 is carried away after being nailed to the cross during a reenactment of Christ's suffering on Good Friday on March 25, 2016 in San Fernando town in Pampanga province, Philippines. The annual crucifixion and flagellation rites draws huge crowds of people to normally sleepy towns in northern Philippines. less

SAN FERNANDO, PAMPANGA - MARCH 25: Filipino Willy Salvador, 59 is carried away after being nailed to the cross during a reenactment of Christ's suffering on Good Friday on March 25, 2016 in San Fernando town ... more

SAN FERNANDO, PAMPANGA - MARCH 25: Filipino Willy Salvador, 59 is carried away after being nailed to the cross during a reenactment of Christ's suffering on Good Friday on March 25, 2016 in San Fernando town in Pampanga province, Philippines. The annual crucifixion and flagellation rites draws huge crowds of people to normally sleepy towns in northern Philippines. less

SAN FERNANDO, PAMPANGA - MARCH 25: Filipino Willy Salvador, 59 is carried away after being nailed to the cross during a reenactment of Christ's suffering on Good Friday on March 25, 2016 in San Fernando town in ... more

PAMPANGA, PHILIPPINES - MARCH 25: A man makes small cuts on the back of a Filipino Christian devotee to make the blood flow freely during flagellation rites on Good Friday on March 25, 2016 in San Fernando town in Pampanga province, Philippines. The annual crucifixion and flagellation rites draws huge crowds of people to normally sleepy towns in northern Philippines. less

PAMPANGA, PHILIPPINES - MARCH 25: A man makes small cuts on the back of a Filipino Christian devotee to make the blood flow freely during flagellation rites on Good Friday on March 25, 2016 in San Fernando town ... more

PAMPANGA, PHILIPPINES - MARCH 25: A Filipino Christian devotees lies down as a form of penitence during Good Friday on March 25, 2016 in San Fernando town in Pampanga province, Philippines. The annual crucifixion and flagellation rites draws huge crowds of people to normally sleepy towns in northern Philippines. less

PAMPANGA, PHILIPPINES - MARCH 25: A Filipino Christian devotees lies down as a form of penitence during Good Friday on March 25, 2016 in San Fernando town in Pampanga province, Philippines. The annual ... more

SAN FERNANDO, PAMPANGA - MARCH 25: Filipino Christian devotees whip their backs bloody using wooden flails during Good Friday on March 25, 2016 in San Fernando town in Pampanga province, Philippines. The annual crucifixion and flagellation rites draws huge crowds of people to normally sleepy towns in northern Philippines. less

SAN FERNANDO, PAMPANGA - MARCH 25: Filipino Christian devotees whip their backs bloody using wooden flails during Good Friday on March 25, 2016 in San Fernando town in Pampanga province, Philippines. The ... more

LONDON, ENGLAND - MARCH 25: Actor James Burke-Dunsmore shares bread at the last supper with his disciples whilst playing Jesus during The Wintershall's 'The Passion of Jesus' in front of crowds on Good Friday at Trafalgar Square on March 25, 2016 in London, England. The Wintershall's theatrical production of 'The Passion of Jesus' includes a cast of 100 actors, horses, a donkey and authentic costumes of Roman soldiers in the 12th Legion of the Roman Army. Good Friday is a Christian religious holiday before Easter Sunday, which commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ on the cross. less

LONDON, ENGLAND - MARCH 25: Actor James Burke-Dunsmore shares bread at the last supper with his disciples whilst playing Jesus during The Wintershall's 'The Passion of Jesus' in front of crowds on Good Friday ... more

LONDON, ENGLAND - MARCH 25: Actor James Burke-Dunsmore appears resurrected whilst playing Jesus during The Wintershall's 'The Passion of Jesus' in front of crowds on Good Friday at Trafalgar Square on March 25, 2016 in London, England. The Wintershall's theatrical production of 'The Passion of Jesus' includes a cast of 100 actors, horses, a donkey and authentic costumes of Roman soldiers in the 12th Legion of the Roman Army. Good Friday is a Christian religious holiday before Easter Sunday, which commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ on the cross. less

LONDON, ENGLAND - MARCH 25: Actor James Burke-Dunsmore appears resurrected whilst playing Jesus during The Wintershall's 'The Passion of Jesus' in front of crowds on Good Friday at Trafalgar Square on March ... more

LONDON, ENGLAND - MARCH 25: Actor James Burke-Dunsmore speaks to his disciples whilst playing Jesus during The Wintershall's 'The Passion of Jesus' in front of crowds on Good Friday at Trafalgar Square on March 25, 2016 in London, England. The Wintershall's theatrical production of 'The Passion of Jesus' includes a cast of 100 actors, horses, a donkey and authentic costumes of Roman soldiers in the 12th Legion of the Roman Army. Good Friday is a Christian religious holiday before Easter Sunday, which commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ on the cross. less

LONDON, ENGLAND - MARCH 25: Actor James Burke-Dunsmore speaks to his disciples whilst playing Jesus during The Wintershall's 'The Passion of Jesus' in front of crowds on Good Friday at Trafalgar Square on ... more

LONDON, ENGLAND - MARCH 25: Actor James Burke-Dunsmore plays Jesus during The Wintershall's 'The Passion of Jesus' in front of crowds on Good Friday at Trafalgar Square on March 25, 2016 in London, England. The Wintershall's theatrical production of 'The Passion of Jesus' includes a cast of 100 actors, horses, a donkey and authentic costumes of Roman soldiers in the 12th Legion of the Roman Army. Good Friday is a Christian religious holiday before Easter Sunday, which commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ on the cross. less

LONDON, ENGLAND - MARCH 25: Actor James Burke-Dunsmore plays Jesus during The Wintershall's 'The Passion of Jesus' in front of crowds on Good Friday at Trafalgar Square on March 25, 2016 in London, England. ... more

LONDON, ENGLAND - MARCH 25: Actor James Burke-Dunsmore appears resurrected whilst playing Jesus during The Wintershall's 'The Passion of Jesus' in front of crowds on Good Friday at Trafalgar Square on March 25, 2016 in London, England. The Wintershall's theatrical production of 'The Passion of Jesus' includes a cast of 100 actors, horses, a donkey and authentic costumes of Roman soldiers in the 12th Legion of the Roman Army. Good Friday is a Christian religious holiday before Easter Sunday, which commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ on the cross. less

LONDON, ENGLAND - MARCH 25: Actor James Burke-Dunsmore appears resurrected whilst playing Jesus during The Wintershall's 'The Passion of Jesus' in front of crowds on Good Friday at Trafalgar Square on March ... more

LONDON, ENGLAND - MARCH 25: Actor James Burke-Dunsmore carries a crucifix whilst playing Jesus during The Wintershall's 'The Passion of Jesus' in front of crowds on Good Friday at Trafalgar Square on March 25, 2016 in London, England. The Wintershall's theatrical production of 'The Passion of Jesus' includes a cast of 100 actors, horses, a donkey and authentic costumes of Roman soldiers in the 12th Legion of the Roman Army. Good Friday is a Christian religious holiday before Easter Sunday, which commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ on the cross. less

LONDON, ENGLAND - MARCH 25: Actor James Burke-Dunsmore carries a crucifix whilst playing Jesus during The Wintershall's 'The Passion of Jesus' in front of crowds on Good Friday at Trafalgar Square on March 25, ... more

LONDON, ENGLAND - MARCH 25: Actor James Burke-Dunsmore is brought out to carry a crucifix whilst playing Jesus during The Wintershall's 'The Passion of Jesus' in front of crowds on Good Friday at Trafalgar Square on March 25, 2016 in London, England. The Wintershall's theatrical production of 'The Passion of Jesus' includes a cast of 100 actors, horses, a donkey and authentic costumes of Roman soldiers in the 12th Legion of the Roman Army. Good Friday is a Christian religious holiday before Easter Sunday, which commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ on the cross. less

LONDON, ENGLAND - MARCH 25: Actor James Burke-Dunsmore is brought out to carry a crucifix whilst playing Jesus during The Wintershall's 'The Passion of Jesus' in front of crowds on Good Friday at Trafalgar ... more

LONDON, ENGLAND - MARCH 25: One of Jesus' disciples is dunked in a fountain during The Wintershall's 'The Passion of Jesus' in front of crowds on Good Friday at Trafalgar Square on March 25, 2016 in London, England. The Wintershall's theatrical production of 'The Passion of Jesus' includes a cast of 100 actors, horses, a donkey and authentic costumes of Roman soldiers in the 12th Legion of the Roman Army. Good Friday is a Christian religious holiday before Easter Sunday, which commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ on the cross. less

LONDON, ENGLAND - MARCH 25: One of Jesus' disciples is dunked in a fountain during The Wintershall's 'The Passion of Jesus' in front of crowds on Good Friday at Trafalgar Square on March 25, 2016 in London, ... more

Photo: Chris Ratcliffe, Getty Images

LONDON, ENGLAND - MARCH 25: One of Jesus' disciples is dunked...photo-9705766.127111 - |ucfirst

LONDON, ENGLAND - MARCH 25: Actor James Burke-Dunsmore stands on a crucifix whilst playing Jesus during The Wintershall's 'The Passion of Jesus' in front of crowds on Good Friday at Trafalgar Square on March 25, 2016 in London, England. The Wintershall's theatrical production of 'The Passion of Jesus' includes a cast of 100 actors, horses, a donkey and authentic costumes of Roman soldiers in the 12th Legion of the Roman Army. Good Friday is a Christian religious holiday before Easter Sunday, which commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ on the cross. less

LONDON, ENGLAND - MARCH 25: Actor James Burke-Dunsmore stands on a crucifix whilst playing Jesus during The Wintershall's 'The Passion of Jesus' in front of crowds on Good Friday at Trafalgar Square on March ... more

LONDON, ENGLAND - MARCH 25: Actor James Burke-Dunsmore carries a crucifix whilst playing Jesus during The Wintershall's 'The Passion of Jesus' in front of crowds on Good Friday at Trafalgar Square on March 25, 2016 in London, England. The Wintershall's theatrical production of 'The Passion of Jesus' includes a cast of 100 actors, horses, a donkey and authentic costumes of Roman soldiers in the 12th Legion of the Roman Army. Good Friday is a Christian religious holiday before Easter Sunday, which commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ on the cross. less

LONDON, ENGLAND - MARCH 25: Actor James Burke-Dunsmore carries a crucifix whilst playing Jesus during The Wintershall's 'The Passion of Jesus' in front of crowds on Good Friday at Trafalgar Square on March 25, ... more

LONDON, ENGLAND - MARCH 25: Actor James Burke-Dunsmore is raised on to a crucifix whilst playing Jesus during The Wintershall's 'The Passion of Jesus' in front of crowds on Good Friday at Trafalgar Square on March 25, 2016 in London, England. The Wintershall's theatrical production of 'The Passion of Jesus' includes a cast of 100 actors, horses, a donkey and authentic costumes of Roman soldiers in the 12th Legion of the Roman Army. Good Friday is a Christian religious holiday before Easter Sunday, which commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ on the cross. less

LONDON, ENGLAND - MARCH 25: Actor James Burke-Dunsmore is raised on to a crucifix whilst playing Jesus during The Wintershall's 'The Passion of Jesus' in front of crowds on Good Friday at Trafalgar Square on ... more

LONDON, ENGLAND - MARCH 25: Actor James Burke-Dunsmore is lowered from a crucifix whilst playing Jesus during The Wintershall's 'The Passion of Jesus' in front of crowds on Good Friday at Trafalgar Square on March 25, 2016 in London, England. The Wintershall's theatrical production of 'The Passion of Jesus' includes a cast of 100 actors, horses, a donkey and authentic costumes of Roman soldiers in the 12th Legion of the Roman Army. Good Friday is a Christian religious holiday before Easter Sunday, which commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ on the cross. less

LONDON, ENGLAND - MARCH 25: Actor James Burke-Dunsmore is lowered from a crucifix whilst playing Jesus during The Wintershall's 'The Passion of Jesus' in front of crowds on Good Friday at Trafalgar Square on ... more

HIENDELAENCINA, SPAIN - MARCH 25: An actor portraying Jesus is crucified as residents of Hiendelaencia dressed in period clothing perform during the reenactment of Christ's suffering on March 25, 2016 in Hiendelaencina, Spain. The 140 village's residents celebrate every year on Good Friday a reenactment of Christ's suffering before being nailed to the cross Hiendelaencina's inhabitants use their own funds to make the stages and wardrobe. Spain celebrates holy week before Easter with processions in most Spanish towns and villages. less

HIENDELAENCINA, SPAIN - MARCH 25: An actor portraying Jesus is crucified as residents of Hiendelaencia dressed in period clothing perform during the reenactment of Christ's suffering on March 25, 2016 in ... more

HIENDELAENCINA, SPAIN - MARCH 25: A tourtist takes a picture in front of the three crosses after neighbours of Hiendelaencia performed during the reenactment of Christ's suffering on March 25, 2016 in Hiendelaencina, Spain. The 140 village's residents celebrate every year on Good Friday a reenactment of Christ's suffering before being nailed to the cross Hiendelaencina's inhabitants use their own funds to make the stages and wardrobe. Spain celebrates holy week before Easter with processions in most Spanish towns and villages. less

HIENDELAENCINA, SPAIN - MARCH 25: A tourtist takes a picture in front of the three crosses after neighbours of Hiendelaencia performed during the reenactment of Christ's suffering on March 25, 2016 in ... more

HIENDELAENCINA, SPAIN - MARCH 25: Residents of Hiendelaencia dressed in period clothing gather before starting the reenactment of Christ's suffering on March 25, 2016 in Hiendelaencina, Spain. The 140 village's residents celebrate every year on Good Friday a reenactment of Christ's suffering before being nailed to the cross Hiendelaencina's inhabitants use their own funds to make the stages and wardrobe. Spain celebrates holy week before Easter with processions in most Spanish towns and villages. less

HIENDELAENCINA, SPAIN - MARCH 25: Residents of Hiendelaencia dressed in period clothing gather before starting the reenactment of Christ's suffering on March 25, 2016 in Hiendelaencina, Spain. The 140 ... more

HIENDELAENCINA, SPAIN - MARCH 25: Concha makes up Felipe as he is dressing up as Jesus Christ ahead of the reenactment of Christ's suffering on March 25, 2016 in Hiendelaencina, Spain. The 140 village's residents celebrate every year on Good Friday a reenactment of Christ's suffering before being nailed to the cross. Hiendelaencina's inhabitants use their own funds to make the stages and wardrobe. Spain celebrates holy week before Easter with processions in most Spanish towns and villages. less

HIENDELAENCINA, SPAIN - MARCH 25: Concha makes up Felipe as he is dressing up as Jesus Christ ahead of the reenactment of Christ's suffering on March 25, 2016 in Hiendelaencina, Spain. The 140 village's ... more

HIENDELAENCINA, SPAIN - MARCH 25: Residents of Hiendelaencia gather before starting the reenactment of Christ's suffering on March 25, 2016 in Hiendelaencina, Spain. The 140 village's residents celebrate every year on Good Friday a reenactment of Christ's suffering before being nailed to the cross Hiendelaencina's inhabitants use their own funds to make the stages and wardrobe. Spain celebrates holy week before Easter with processions in most Spanish towns and villages. less

HIENDELAENCINA, SPAIN - MARCH 25: Residents of Hiendelaencia gather before starting the reenactment of Christ's suffering on March 25, 2016 in Hiendelaencina, Spain. The 140 village's residents celebrate every ... more

CUEVAS DEL ALMANZORA, SPAIN - MARCH 25: Actors representing the 'Judios' and Jesus Christ take part in 'La Judea' along the streets during a Holy Friday procession on March 25, 2016 in Cuevas del Almanzora, in Almeria province, Spain. 'La Judea' belongs to 'Hermandad de Nuestro Padre Jesus Nazareno'. Certain families of Cuevas del Almanzora have kept this tradition alive for more than a hundred years. Men wearing costume hold a wood maze representing 'los Judios' (the Jewish) pretend to beat and pull 'El Senor' who represents Jesus Christ around the village as he holds a cross on his back. Spain celebrates holy week before Easter with processions in most Spanish towns and villages. less

CUEVAS DEL ALMANZORA, SPAIN - MARCH 25: Actors representing the 'Judios' and Jesus Christ take part in 'La Judea' along the streets during a Holy Friday procession on March 25, 2016 in Cuevas del Almanzora, in ... more

HIENDELAENCINA, SPAIN - MARCH 25: An actor portraying Jesus carries a cross as residents of Hiendelaencia dressed in period clothing perform during the reenactment of Christ's suffering on March 25, 2016 in Hiendelaencina, Spain. The 140 village's residents celebrate every year on Good Friday a reenactment of Christ's suffering before being nailed to the cross Hiendelaencina's inhabitants use their own funds to make the stages and wardrobe. Spain celebrates holy week before Easter with processions in most Spanish towns and villages. less

HIENDELAENCINA, SPAIN - MARCH 25: An actor portraying Jesus carries a cross as residents of Hiendelaencia dressed in period clothing perform during the reenactment of Christ's suffering on March 25, 2016 in ... more

HIENDELAENCINA, SPAIN - MARCH 25: Residents of Hiendelaencia gather before starting the reenactment of Christ's suffering on March 25, 2016 in Hiendelaencina, Spain. The 140 village's residents celebrate every year on Good Friday a reenactment of Christ's suffering before being nailed to the cross Hiendelaencina's inhabitants use their own funds to make the stages and wardrobe. Spain celebrates holy week before Easter with processions in most Spanish towns and villages. less

HIENDELAENCINA, SPAIN - MARCH 25: Residents of Hiendelaencia gather before starting the reenactment of Christ's suffering on March 25, 2016 in Hiendelaencina, Spain. The 140 village's residents celebrate every ... more

CUEVAS DEL ALMANZORA, SPAIN - MARCH 25: Actors representing the 'Judios' and Jesus Christ take part in 'La Judea' along the streets during a Holy Friday procession on March 25, 2016 in Cuevas del Almanzora, in Almeria province, Spain. Certain families of Cuevas del Almanzora have kept this tradition alive for more than a hundred years. Men wearing costume hold a wood maze representing 'los Judios' (the Jewish) pretend to beat and pullÊ 'El Senor' who represents Jesus Christ around the village as he holds a cross on his back. Spain celebrates holy week before Easter with processions in most Spanish towns and villages. less

CUEVAS DEL ALMANZORA, SPAIN - MARCH 25: Actors representing the 'Judios' and Jesus Christ take part in 'La Judea' along the streets during a Holy Friday procession on March 25, 2016 in Cuevas del Almanzora, in ... more

HIENDELAENCINA, SPAIN - MARCH 25: Residents of Hiendelaencia dressed in period clothing gather before starting the reenactment of Christ's suffering on March 25, 2016 in Hiendelaencina, Spain. The 140 village's residents celebrate every year on Good Friday a reenactment of Christ's suffering before being nailed to the cross Hiendelaencina's inhabitants use their own funds to make the stages and wardrobe. Spain celebrates holy week before Easter with processions in most Spanish towns and villages. less

HIENDELAENCINA, SPAIN - MARCH 25: Residents of Hiendelaencia dressed in period clothing gather before starting the reenactment of Christ's suffering on March 25, 2016 in Hiendelaencina, Spain. The 140 ... more

HIENDELAENCINA, SPAIN - MARCH 25: Residents of Hiendelaencia dressed in period clothing perform during the reenactment of Christ's suffering on March 25, 2016 in Hiendelaencina, Spain. The 140 village's residents celebrate every year on Good Friday a reenactment of Christ's suffering before being nailed to the cross Hiendelaencina's inhabitants use their own funds to make the stages and wardrobe. Spain celebrates holy week before Easter with processions in most Spanish towns and villages. less

HIENDELAENCINA, SPAIN - MARCH 25: Residents of Hiendelaencia dressed in period clothing perform during the reenactment of Christ's suffering on March 25, 2016 in Hiendelaencina, Spain. The 140 village's ... more

HIENDELAENCINA, SPAIN - MARCH 25: An actor portraying Jesus is crucified as residents of Hiendelaencia dressed in period clothing perform during the reenactment of Christ's suffering on March 25, 2016 in Hiendelaencina, Spain. The 140 village's residents celebrate every year on Good Friday a reenactment of Christ's suffering before being nailed to the cross Hiendelaencina's inhabitants use their own funds to make the stages and wardrobe. Spain celebrates holy week before Easter with processions in most Spanish towns and villages. less

HIENDELAENCINA, SPAIN - MARCH 25: An actor portraying Jesus is crucified as residents of Hiendelaencia dressed in period clothing perform during the reenactment of Christ's suffering on March 25, 2016 in ... more

HIENDELAENCINA, SPAIN - MARCH 25: An actor portraying Jesus is crucified as residents of Hiendelaencia dressed in period clothing perform during the reenactment of Christ's suffering on March 25, 2016 in Hiendelaencina, Spain. The 140 village's residents celebrate every year on Good Friday a reenactment of Christ's suffering before being nailed to the cross Hiendelaencina's inhabitants use their own funds to make the stages and wardrobe. Spain celebrates holy week before Easter with processions in most Spanish towns and villages. less

HIENDELAENCINA, SPAIN - MARCH 25: An actor portraying Jesus is crucified as residents of Hiendelaencia dressed in period clothing perform during the reenactment of Christ's suffering on March 25, 2016 in ... more

HIENDELAENCINA, SPAIN - MARCH 25: An actor portraying Jesus is crucified as residents of Hiendelaencia dressed in period clothing perform during the reenactment of Christ's suffering on March 25, 2016 in Hiendelaencina, Spain. The 140 village's residents celebrate every year on Good Friday a reenactment of Christ's suffering before being nailed to the cross Hiendelaencina's inhabitants use their own funds to make the stages and wardrobe. Spain celebrates holy week before Easter with processions in most Spanish towns and villages. less

HIENDELAENCINA, SPAIN - MARCH 25: An actor portraying Jesus is crucified as residents of Hiendelaencia dressed in period clothing perform during the reenactment of Christ's suffering on March 25, 2016 in ... more

HIENDELAENCINA, SPAIN - MARCH 24: People perform the crucifixion during a rehearsal of the reenactment of Christ's suffering on March 24, 2016 in Hiendelaencina, Spain. Since 1972, the 140 village's residents celebrate every year on Good Friday a reenactment of Christ's suffering before being nailed to the cross. Hiendelaencina's inhabitants use their own funds to make the stages and wardrobe. Spain celebrates holy week before Easter with processions in most Spanish towns and villages. less

HIENDELAENCINA, SPAIN - MARCH 24: People perform the crucifixion during a rehearsal of the reenactment of Christ's suffering on March 24, 2016 in Hiendelaencina, Spain. Since 1972, the 140 village's residents ... more

HIENDELAENCINA, SPAIN - MARCH 25: An actor portraying Jesus is crucified as residents of Hiendelaencia dressed in period clothing perform during the reenactment of Christ's suffering on March 25, 2016 in Hiendelaencina, Spain. The 140 village's residents celebrate every year on Good Friday a reenactment of Christ's suffering before being nailed to the cross Hiendelaencina's inhabitants use their own funds to make the stages and wardrobe. Spain celebrates holy week before Easter with processions in most Spanish towns and villages. less

HIENDELAENCINA, SPAIN - MARCH 25: An actor portraying Jesus is crucified as residents of Hiendelaencia dressed in period clothing perform during the reenactment of Christ's suffering on March 25, 2016 in ... more

HIENDELAENCINA, SPAIN - MARCH 24: People perform the crucifixion during a rehearsal of the reenactment of Christ's suffering on March 24, 2016 in Hiendelaencina, Spain. Since 1972, the 140 village's residents celebrate every year on Good Friday a reenactment of Christ's suffering before being nailed to the cross. Hiendelaencina's inhabitants use their own funds to make the stages and wardrobe. Spain celebrates holy week before Easter with processions in most Spanish towns and villages. less

HIENDELAENCINA, SPAIN - MARCH 24: People perform the crucifixion during a rehearsal of the reenactment of Christ's suffering on March 24, 2016 in Hiendelaencina, Spain. Since 1972, the 140 village's residents ... more

Willy Salvador, 59, hangs from a cross as part of his penitence during a reenactment of the crucifixion of Jesus Christ for Good Friday celebrations ahead of Easter in the village of San Juan, Pampanga, north of Manila on March 25, 2016.
Christian devotees were nailed to crosses in the Philippines on March 25 as Asia's Catholic heartland marked Easter with an extreme display of faith.
/ AFP / NOEL CELIS less

Willy Salvador, 59, hangs from a cross as part of his penitence during a reenactment of the crucifixion of Jesus Christ for Good Friday celebrations ahead of Easter in the village of San Juan, Pampanga, north ... more